Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Detected in Indonesia: Ministry of Health Urges Public Not to Panic
The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which recently saw an outbreak in China, has been detected in Indonesia. All reported cases involve children. In response, Indonesian Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged the public not to panic, stating that HMPV is not a new virus and is already well-known in the medical world.
"HMPV has been present in Indonesia for a long time. Upon checking, it’s there. I myself saw data from several labs yesterday, and it turns out that some children have been infected with HMPV," Minister Sadikin said during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday, January 6, 2025.
The Minister explained that HMPV differs from COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, which is a new virus, HMPV is an old virus similar to the flu. The human immune system has been familiar with this virus for a long time and can respond to it effectively.
"Unlike COVID-19, which emerged a few years ago, HMPV is an old virus that has been around since 2001 and has been circulating globally since then. Until now, there have been no significant issues," the Minister stated.
Regarding reports of HMPV cases increasing in China, Minister Sadikin clarified that the information is incorrect and has been confirmed by both the Chinese government and the World Health Organization (WHO). He explained that China, being a four-season country, often experiences an increase in common flu cases during the winter season.
"The information I’ve seen shows that the virus in question in China is not HMPV but H1N1, a common flu virus. HMPV ranks third in China in terms of prevalence, so the information is incorrect," Minister Sadikin explained.
The Minister also reassured the public that HMPV is not a deadly virus, similar to the common flu. Its symptoms include cough, fever, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Most infected individuals recover on their own without special treatment.
HMPV spreads similarly to other flu viruses, through droplet transmission. Although generally not dangerous, vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with certain health conditions should remain vigilant.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health urges the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adequate rest, regular hand washing, wearing a mask if feeling unwell, and promptly consulting a healthcare professional if suspicious symptoms arise.
"Most importantly, stay calm and be vigilant. By following the 3M health protocols, maintaining a safe distance, washing your hands, and wearing a mask, we can manage this virus effectively, just like we did with COVID-19," the Minister concluded.
